San Jose, CA – On the evening of Friday, November 14, 2025, a multi-vehicle collision resulted in a fatality on State Route 87 South near the Taylor Street off-ramp, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 7:40 PM at the SR-87 southbound Taylor Street off-ramp.
Dispatch logs indicate that debris was scattered across multiple lanes, and several vehicles had pulled over immediately after the impact. Early reports suggested a person was found lying in the No. 2 lane with obvious injuries, prompting bystanders to stop and attempt to assist while authorities worked to determine which vehicle had struck the individual. Responders noted that one vehicle had swerved just before the collision and may have hit the body as it came to rest on the roadway.
San Jose Fire Department units were dispatched within minutes, followed by additional CHP units, who initiated full southbound lane closures. Traffic was diverted to Taylor Street as investigators documented the scene, collected debris, and coordinated with evidence tow crews. A Ford Fusion with moderate front-end damage was taken into custody as evidence.
Authorities notified the Santa Clara County Coroner shortly after 8 PM, with an estimated arrival time of 20 minutes; heavy congestion on the approach routes slowed response. A SigAlert was issued as all lanes remained blocked for nearly two hours while investigators worked under the Taylor Street overcrossing and ensured hazards were cleared.
By 9:49 PM, CHP confirmed that all lanes had reopened and the SigAlert was canceled shortly afterward. The fatal crash remains under investigation.
Wrongful Death Claims & Comparative Negligence
Determining fault in a collision can involve multiple factors, and under California’s Comparative Negligence rule, several parties can share partial responsibility.
Should someone else be found even partly responsible for the death, the family may be able to file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide compensation to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income to support the family of the deceased.
